The association Sainte-Denise-Louise “La Dunkerquoise” was founded in 2023. It brings together more than 50 active members, all driven by the same conviction: to save the heroic wooden dundee Sainte-Denise-Louise — a hero of Operation Dynamo in 1940, and a decorated war vessel — and bring her back to life through a replica.
The association Sainte-Denise-Louise “La Dunkerquoise” is leading a project to restore the dundee Sainte-Denise-Louise, a former emblematic sailing vessel of the port of Dunkirk, which took part in Operation Dynamo alongside hundreds of civilian and military craft. The aim is to bring this emblem back to life so that she returns to the harbour and can join educational, cultural, tourist and commemorative events. The project is part of the wider effort to promote local maritime heritage.
This dundee carries a unique memory. She embodies Dunkirk’s maritime history, the courage of civilian communities, and the ties between France and Britain.
By building parts of the original that are still sound into the new boat, the Sainte-Denise-Louise could join the “most exclusive yacht club in the world”: the fleet of Little Ships that took part in Operation Dynamo. Kevin Finn, commodore of the Little Ships, supports the project and would allow the replica to fly the famous red and white flag. Help us raise the “Dunkirk spirit” again, so that we may soon sail the waters of Operation Dynamo.
The statutes of the association Sainte Denise Louise – La Dunkerquoise are available to download.
Latest general meeting report: 21 April 2026.
Download the general meeting report of 21 April 2026 (PDF)
Contact : saintedeniselouise@gmail.com
